News

Join the RTC LinkedIn Group

Monday, February 1, 2010

Join the RTC LinkedIn Group and participate in discussions with companies who use technology and those that provide technology.

Join the RTC LinkedIn Group and participate in discussions with companies who use technology and those that provide technology. The LinkedIn Group can be found here http://www.linkedin.com/groups?home=&gid=2561279&trk=anet_ug_hm

Business development manager joins PVLSI

Friday, January 29, 2010

The Pioneer Valley Life Sciences Institute announces that Marcia Dougan Woods, MPH has joined the Institute as its business development manager.

Business development manager joins PVLSI

The Pioneer Valley Life Sciences Institute announces that Marcia Dougan Woods, MPH has joined the Institute as its business development manager. In that capacity she will work closely with the senior leadership team to advance relationships and implement innovative programs with industry. Ms. Woods has 20 years of experience in the biotechnology and pharmaceutical industries, including as a consultant to small biotechnology companies and with Bristol-Myers Squibb as director, Oncology/Pharmacogenomics External Science Technology and Licensing. She holds a MPH from Yale University and a BS in biological sciences from Bates College.

“I am delighted that Marcia is here. We are fortunate to have her breadth of experience to draw upon as we expand our relationships with industry. We see business development as an important part of our commitment to the continued growth of our organization, our interdisciplinary translational research agenda and realizing our potential to contribute to life science-driven economic development in the region and Commonwealth.” observes PVLSI executive director, Dr. Paul Friedmann.

“Having worked as a consultant for small biotechnology companies and at the intersection of science and business in a large corporation, I see great potential for the PVLSI to engage industry in a variety of ways. Joining the Institute at this stage of its development affords me the exciting opportunity to help create new programs that meet the needs of industry as well as those of the PVLSI,” states Ms. Woods.

“As we accelerate our outreach to the private sector, we are very fortunate to have someone with Marcia’s expertise on board,” remarks Larry Schwartz, science director, “Collaborations with industry are essential to maximizing the impact of our research and technical capabilities on biomedical research, human health, and the economic well-being of our region and state.”

About the Pioneer Valley Life Sciences Institute (PVLSI) PVLSI was created in 2002 as a joint venture of Baystate Medical Center and the University of Massachusetts Amherst with the dual missions of biomedical research and economic development. Drawing on each of the founders as well as its own researchers, the Institute brings together physicians, scientists, and engineers to create interdisciplinary and multidisciplinary teams focused on the molecular mechanisms of disease and the development of new diagnostic and therapeutic tools. For more information, go to www.pvlsi.org.

Contacts: Angelina Pizzanelli, Angelina.Pizzanelli@baystatehealth.org, 413.794.0653 Marcia Woods, Marcia.woods@baystatehealth.org, 413.794.0653

PVLSI and Seahorse Bioscience team up to validate novel technology

Thursday, January 21, 2010

PVLSI and Seahorse Bioscience team up to validate novel technology Seahorse Bioscience and the Pioneer Valley Life Sciences Institute (PVLSI) announce an agreement to work together to validate a novel technology developed by Seahorse Bioscience to measure the CO2 (carbon dioxide) production rates of cells.

PVLSI and Seahorse Bioscience team up to validate novel technology

Seahorse Bioscience and the Pioneer Valley Life Sciences Institute (PVLSI) announce an agreement to work together to validate a novel technology developed by Seahorse Bioscience to measure the CO2 (carbon dioxide) production rates of cells. PVLSI scientist Dr. Nagendra Yadava is principal investigator for the project. Noninvasive measurement of CO2 production will aid in the understanding of cell metabolism and generate new insights into the pathophysiology of obesity, diabetes, cancer, cardiovascular and neurodegenerative diseases

“I am excited to be working with such talented scientists right in our own backyard. The ability to study and validate our latest advances in bioenergetic analyses with the end user will ensure that we can continue to provide the innovative tools researchers have come to expect from Seahorse,” stated David Ferrick, PhD, CSO for Seahorse.

“We are very pleased to be working with Seahorse Bioscience on emerging technology. Their XF instruments are important new scientific tools. With the company’s headquarters in North Billerica and its growing Chicopee (MA) design and manufacturing facility, the project is a great fit with our scientific mission as well as our commitment to technology-based economic development in the Pioneer Valley region and throughout Massachusetts,” observed Dr. Lawrence Schwartz, PVLSI’s science director.

About the Pioneer Valley Life Sciences Institute (PVLSI) PVLSI was created in 2002 as a joint venture of Baystate Medical Center and the University of Massachusetts Amherst with the dual missions of biomedical research and economic development. Drawing on each of the founders as well as its own researchers, the Institute brings together physicians, scientists, and engineers to create interdisciplinary and multidisciplinary teams focused on the molecular mechanisms of disease and the development of new diagnostic and therapeutic tools. For more information, go to www.pvlsi.org .

About Seahorse Bioscience SEAHORSE XF ANALYZERS have become the new standard in cellular bioenergetic measurements. Scientists worldwide use these tools to advance their research in understanding the role of mitochondrial function in obesity, diabetes, ageing, cancer, cardiovascular function and safety toxicity. Founded in 2001, Seahorse is headquartered in North Billerica, MA. For more information, go to: www.seahorsebio.com

Contacts: PVLSI - Angelina Pizzanelli, Angelina.Pizzanelli@baystatehealth.org 413.794.0653 Seahorse Bioscience - Cynthia Egan, CEgan@seahorsebio.com, 978.671.1610.

Toner Plastics to Supply Product for Volt Electric Vehicle

Wednesday, December 2, 2009

Toner Plastics to Supply Product for Volt Electric Vehicle

AGAWAM, MA -- December 2, 2009 -- Toner Plastics announced today that it will begin supplying certain components of wire assemblies for Chevrolet’s new Volt electric hybrid vehicle. The Volt is one of the most highly anticipated vehicles from General Motors in recent years, and expected to launch in the U.S. beginning in late 2010.

Toner Plastics to Supply Product for Volt Electric Vehicle

AGAWAM, MA -- December 2, 2009 -- Toner Plastics announced today that it will begin supplying certain components of wire assemblies for Chevrolet’s new Volt electric hybrid vehicle. The Volt is one of the most highly anticipated vehicles from General Motors in recent years, and expected to launch in the U.S. beginning in late 2010.
David Race, the company’s General Manager, indicated that Toner Plastics will start producing a nylon extrusion this month for use in part of the Volt’s electrical assembly. “We are very excited to be a part of this project,” Mr. Race stated. “Toner Plastics has developed a number of products directed at the global push toward a greener and safer environment, so we are very pleased to be part of GM’s new electric car initiative.”
Toner Plastics was founded in 1989 and extrudes flexible plastic profiles across a broad range of industries. The company, which employs 25 full-time employees, also manufactures products for the children’s craft market. For more information, please contact (413) 789-1300.

Contact: David Race Toner Plastics Inc. 699 Silver St Agawam, MA 01028 413-789-1300 dr@tonerplastics.com

Mass. claims $2M for statewide broadband service

Monday, November 9, 2009

Mass. claims $2M for statewide broadband service masshightech.com (Nov 6 2009)

Mass. claims $2M for statewide broadband service masshightech.com (Nov 6 2009) - The U.S. Department of Commerce’s National Telecommunications and Information Administration has awarded about $2 million in stimulus funding to Massachusetts for the purpose of developing initial steps for setting up broadband Internet service throughout the commonwealth, including Cape Cod and western Massachusetts. ... For full article: Mass claims $2M for statewide broadband service

Congratulations to RTC Members Atalasoft

Monday, September 14, 2009

Atalasoft Ranks 92 on the Inc. Magazine’s List of 100 Fastest Growing Software Companies in America

Atalasoft Ranks 92 on the Inc. Magazine’s List of 100 Fastest Growing Software Companies in America
Easthampton, Massachusetts, September 14, 2009 – Inc. Magazine ranked Atalasoft, Inc. No. 1523 on its third annual Inc. 5000, an exclusive ranking of the nation's fastest-growing private companies. The list represents a comprehensive look at the most important segment of the economy—America's independent-minded entrepreneurs. With a three-year sales growth of 209%, this is the second consecutive year that Atalasoft has been recognized by Inc. Magazine and the second year recognized as one of the top 100 fastest growing software companies. Atalasoft was founded in 2000 as a hobby business by President & CEO William Bither. He soon recognized the opportunity for growth and incorporated in 2002 with a focus on imaging technology. “I am honored to be recognized among other tremendously talented teams of privately held companies,” said Bither. “I’m especially proud that we have been able to maintain our growth and profitability without any outside investment, even in today’s tough economic environment.”

The 2009 Inc. 5000, reported on Inc.com, serves as a unique report card on the U.S. economy. Despite the ongoing recession, aggregate revenue among the companies on the list actually increased to $214 billion, up $29 billion from last year, with a median three-year growth rate of 126%. The Inc. 5000 honorees are responsible for creating more than 1 million jobs since their founding— proving that private, fast-growing companies have a significant impact on the economy.

About Atalasoft
For nearly ten years, Atalasoft has built software that improves how users interact with documents over the web through innovative image viewing, annotating, and processing technology. Products include DotImage, the leading imaging toolkit for .NET developers, and Vizit SP, the Document Image Viewer for SharePoint. Atalasoft’s products power over 1000 document management, ECM, and EMR applications built by ISVs, System Integrators, and Enterprises deployed to millions of end-users worldwide. Industries that Atalasoft serves include Healthcare, Financial Services, Legal, Government, Education, and Manufacturing.

Contact For More Information: Eric Deutchman / (866) 568-0129 / eric.deutchman@atalasoft.com ###

Garvey CommunicationsAssociates Inc.Promotes Mary Fallon and Amanda Gauthier

Wednesday, September 9, 2009

Garvey Communication Associates Inc. Promotes Mary Fallon To Media Director and Appoints Amanda Gauthier as Social Media Assistant

Garvey Communication Associates Inc. Promotes Mary Fallon To Media Director and Appoints Amanda Gauthier as Social Media Assistant

Springfield, MA September 10, 2009 – John J. Garvey, president of Garvey Communication Associates Inc. (GCAI) announced the promotion of Mary K. Fallon to Media Director for the Springfield based marketing and public relations agency. As Media Director, Ms. Fallon will direct public relations, media buying, and social media efforts for GCAI clients in financial services and manufacturing. She joined the company in 2004 as a Marketing Assistant and served as a Media Analyst until this promotion.

According to Mr. Garvey, Ms. Fallon is a social media veteran who can easily help GCAI’s clients engage their customers through both new and traditional media. She attended the Public Relations Society of America’s Digital Impact Summit in 2008 and was a presenter at the 2009 Online Impact Seminar at Springfield Technical Community College.

Ms. Fallon is a graduate of the Isenberg School of Management at the University of Massachusetts in Amherst where she earned a Bachelor of Science Degree in Marketing. She is a member of The Valley Press Club, The Public Relations Society of America and serves on the board of directors for The Advertising Club of Western Massachusetts. Ms. Fallon is also a new homeowner in the City of Springfield.

Mr. Garvey also announced the appointment of Amanda L. Gauthier as Social Media Assistant. Mr. Garvey stated that Ms. Gauthier assists in the development and management of both agency and client social media platforms. She is experienced in the optimization of LinkedIn and Facebook including the creation of personal profiles and company or fan pages on those sites. Ms Gauthier also helps GCAI clients understand the popular social networking tool Twitter. She has operated and optimized this platform for several individuals and organizations including GCAI client EASTEC – the largest precision manufacturing event on the East Coast. Ms. Gauthier is a resident of East Longmeadow.

Ms. Gauthier is an associate member of The Public Relations Society of America, a member of The Advertising Club of Western Massachusetts, and is a student at Holyoke Community College.

Both Ms. Fallon and Ms. Gauthier are volunteers at the Zanetti Montessori School in Springfield through GCAI’s vocational mentoring program “Media and Marketing for Middle School.”

About
Garvey Communication Associates Inc. (GCAI) is a full service marketing, advertising, and public relations agency representing many of the leading organizations in their market. Current GCAI clients include: PeoplesBank – with $1.5 billion in assets, named the top community bank in the market by the Boston Business Journal; EASTEC – the East Coast’s largest annual manufacturing event; The FieldEddy Insurance Network - the largest independent insurance agency network in the region; and The Springfield Housing Authority – the second largest housing authority in the state and which pumps over $70 million into the local economy on an annual basis.www.askmydog.com

Congratulations to RTC Members Willard Finacial Group on Expanding their Business

Friday, September 4, 2009

Willard Financial Group Expands Business Opens Satellite Office and Hires a Former MassMutual Executive

WILBRAHAM, Mass. - Rick Willard, founder and president of Willard Financial Group, LLC, a Wilbraham-based firm that designs incentive plans for companies throughout the northeast to retain, reward, and recruit key employees, is expanding his business. Willard has opened a satellite office on Front St. in Scituate, Mass. He has also hired James D. Percy, J.D., CLU, ChFC, a retired second vice president and associate general counsel of Massachusetts Mutual Life Insurance Company (MassMutual), to be part of his team. Willard tapped Percy for his experience in the federal tax and regulatory aspects of business and compensation planning and estate planning. “Businesses are faced with many complex and ever-changing rules and regulations such as the Sarbanes-Oxley legislation, new rules regarding deferred compensation and business-owned life insurance, and the soon-to-come estate tax law,” says Willard. “Our goal in designing incentive plans is not limited to creating packages that will retain, reward, and recruit key employees for our clients. We also want the packages to help clients preserve and accumulate assets. By adding Jim Percy to our team, we tap in on the experience and knowledge of a former associate general counsel at MassMutual who is a specialist in navigating these types of regulations.” Percy received his bachelor’s degree from Tufts University and his law degree from the University of Connecticut Law School. Prior to joining MassMutual in 1984, he was an associate counsel for 10 years in the Estate and Business Planning Division of Phoenix Mutual. Percy has written for several national publications, including CCH Financial and Estate Planning, and Financial and Estate Planners Quarterly. He has spoken at numerous seminars throughout the country and has taught the CLU Estate and Gift Taxation Course. Percy is a former president of the Western Massachusetts Chapter of the Society of Financial Services Professionals and is currently a member of its board of directors. He lives with his wife, Elizabeth, in South Windsor, Conn. Securities, investment advisory and financial planning services offered through qualified registered representatives of MML Investors Services, Inc., member SIPC. Supervisory office: 330 Whitney Avenue, Suite 600, Holyoke, MA 01040, Tel: 413-539-2000.

RELEASED: Clean Energy and Industrial Efficiency Program Application

Monday, June 22, 2009

Jerry Bringham is pleased to announce that we are releasing the application package for this Grant Opportunity. We have sought to make this process as quick and simple as possible. While it looks like a lot of forms, each application package submitted will consist of 4 files. In addition, each form should be relatively straight forward for projects that are “dig ready.” How to Apply –

Applicants submitting requests for funding should submit an application package (with 4 elements) for the applicable Area of Interest:

Private Sector, Institutional, and Not-for-profit
1) CEIE Program Application
2) Data Sheets (submit the form that corresponds to the project’s Area of Interest)

Form 1 | Form 2 | Form 3 | Form 4 3) Budget Explanation (PMC 123)* 4) Budget Information Form (SF 424)

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*Please note that there is a different US-DOE budget form (PMC) for state and local government applying for this grant (not necessary for private sector applicants).

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Please note that these forms are available on the DOER web page for this program and answers to queries will be posted regularly at the dedicated Q&A website "http://sites.google.com/site/cleanenergyganda/" .

Gerry Bingham, Senior Coordinator

Massachusetts Department of Energy Resources 100 Cambridge Street, Suite 1020, Boston, MA 02114 Ph: 617.626.7378 Fax: 617.727.0030

"http://www.mass.gov/doer/" .

Business Provisions of the American Recovery

Monday, June 22, 2009

The American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 (ARRA) provides a number of tax incentives for businesses.

The American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 (ARRA) provides a number of tax incentives for businesses. Most of the tax incentives for businesses are found in Subtitle C of Division B, Title I of ARRA. In addition, some of the energy incentives, contained in Subtitle B, [and a subsidy for premiums for COBRA health continuation coverage in Title III of Division B,] provide tax relief for businesses.

Here is a summary of the key ARRA provisions, in numerical order, which may impact businesses, large and small:

Tax Incentives for Business (Subtitle C)


50-Percent Special Depreciation Allowance/Bonus Depreciation (Section 1201) - The new law extends the 50-percent special depreciation allowance that was available for 2008 acquisitions to acquisitions of qualifying property in 2009. This provision enables businesses to deduct half the adjusted basis of qualifying property in the year it is placed in service. The extension applies to qualifying property placed in service in 2009 (2010 for long production period property and certain transportation property).

Acceleration of Certain Business Credits (Section 1201): Corporations that acquire eligible business property have an additional year to accelerate certain tax credits in lieu of a bonus depreciation deduction. The extension applies to eligible business property placed in service in 2009 (2010 for long production period property and certain transportation property).

Section 179 Expensing (Section 1202): During 2009, small businesses can elect to expense up to $250,000 of the cost of qualifying property under section 179. Without the new law, the limit would have dropped to $133,000. The existing $25,000 limit still applies to sports utility vehicles. The $250,000 amount provided under the new law is reduced if the cost of all section 179 property placed in service by the taxpayer during the tax year exceeds $800,000.

Expanded Net Operating Loss Carryback (Section 1211): Many small businesses that had expenses exceeding their income for 2008 can choose to carry the loss back for up to five years, instead of the usual two years. For small businesses that were profitable in the past but lost money in 2008, this could mean a special tax refund. The option is available for a small business that has no more than an average of $15 million in gross receipts over a three-year period. This option is available for most eligible taxpayers for a limited time. A corporation that operates on a calendar-year basis, for example, must file a claim by Sept. 15, 2009. For eligible individuals, the deadline is Oct. 15, 2009.

Estimated Tax Requirement Modified (Section 1212): Many individual small business taxpayers may be able to defer until the end of the year paying a larger part of their 2009 tax obligation. For 2009, eligible individuals can make quarterly estimated tax payments equal to 90 percent of their 2009 tax or 90 percent of their 2008 tax, whichever is less. Individuals qualify if they received more than half of their gross income from their small business in 2008 and meet other requirements. For details, see Publication 505.

Discharge of Business Indebtedness (Section 1231): The act allows certain businesses that repurchase specific types of debt in 2009 and 2010 to pay taxes on cancellation of debt income over a five-year period, starting with tax year 2014.

Exclusion of Gain on the Sale of Certain Small Business Stock (Section 1241): ARRA provides an extra incentive for investment in small businesses. The new law provides an increase in the Section 1202 exclusion from 50 percent (60 percent for enterprise zone qualified business entity stock) to 75 percent for any gain from the sale or exchange of qualified small business stock acquired after Feb. 17, 2009 and before Jan. 1, 2011, and held for more than five years. This provision is limited to individual investors and not available to corporations.

S-Corporation Built-in Gains Holding Period (Section 1251): For tax years beginning in either 2009 or 2010, the new law eliminates the corporate level tax on the built-in gains of an S-Corporation that converted from C-corporation status at least seven tax years before the current tax year.

COBRA PREMIUM ASSISTANCE (title III)

COBRA: Health Insurance Continuation Subsidy (Section 3001): Under the new law, employees who were involuntarily terminated after Aug. 31, 2008 and before Jan. 1, 2010, and who elect COBRA health continuation coverage, are entitled to receive a 65 percent subsidy on their COBRA premiums. For periods of COBRA coverage beginning after Feb. 16, 2009, the involuntarily terminated employee must be treated as having paid the required COBRA premium if the individual pays 35 percent of the premium amount. The employer (or, in some cases, multiemployer health plan or insurer) may recover the other 65 percent by taking the subsidy amount as a credit on their quarterly employment tax return.

Energy Incentives (Subtitle B)

Extension of Renewable Energy Production Tax Credit (Section 1101): The new law generally extends the “eligibility dates” of a tax credit for business facilities producing electricity from wind, closed-loop biomass, open-loop biomass, geothermal energy, municipal solid waste, qualified hydropower and marine and hydrokinetic renewable energy. The new law extends the "placed in service date” for wind facilities to Dec. 31, 2012. For the other facilities, the placed-in-service date was extended from Dec. 31, 2010 (Dec. 31, 2011 in the case of marine and hydrokinetic renewable energy facilities) to Dec. 31, 2013.

Election of Investment Credit in Lieu of Production Credit (Section 1102): Businesses that place in service facilities that produce electricity from wind and some other renewable resources after Dec. 31, 2008 can choose either the energy investment tax credit, which generally provides a 30 percent tax credit for investments in energy projects or the production tax credit, which can provide a credit of up to 2.1 cents per kilowatt-hour for electricity produced from renewable sources. A business may not claim both credits for the same facility.

Repeal of Certain Limits on Business Credits for Renewable Energy Property (Section 1103): The new law repeals the $4,000 limit on the 30 percent tax credit for small wind energy property and the limitation on property financed by subsidized energy financing. The repeal applies to property placed in service after Dec. 31, 2008.

Coordination with Renewable Energy Grants (Section 1104): Business taxpayers also can apply for a grant instead of claiming either the energy investment tax credit or the renewable energy production tax credit for property placed in service in 2009 or 2010. In some cases, if construction begins in 2009 or 2010, the grant can be claimed for energy investment credit property placed in service through 2016, and for qualified renewable energy facilities, the grant is 30 percent of the investment in the facility and the property must be placed in service before 2014 (2013 for wind facilities).

New Clean Renewable Energy Bonds (Section 1111): Certain State utilities, governmental entities and cooperatives that initiate projects to generate electricity from renewable sources (for example wind and solar) can finance those projects through qualified tax credit bonds. The new law increases the amount of funds available to issue new clean renewable energy bonds from the one-time national limit of $800 million to $2.4 billion.

Temporary Increase in Credit for Alternative Fuel Vehicle Refueling Property (Section 1123): The new law modifies the credit rate and limit amounts for property placed in service in 2009 and 2010. Qualified property (other than property relating to hydrogen) is now eligible for a 50 percent credit, and the per-location limit increases to $50,000 for business property (increases to $2,000 for other/residential locations). Property relating to hydrogen keeps the 30 percent rate as before, but the per-business location limit rises to $200,000.

Increased Exclusion Amount for Commuter Transit Benefits and Transit Passes (Section 1151): The new law increased to $230 the monthly tax exclusion for employer-provided commuter transportation and transit pass benefits, effective from March through the end of 2009. Employers can generally deduct these qualified transportation fringe benefits as a business expense. These benefits are also excluded from an employee's wages for income tax and payroll tax purposes. Because of this exclusion from employee wages, the employer can reduce the amount paid in employment taxes.

Wendy W. Campbell Senior Stakeholder Liaison Internal Revenue Service 15 New Sudbury Street JFK P.O. Box 9112, Stop 21300 Boston, MA 02203
Telephone: 617-316-2486 Fax: 617-316-2713

Cantor Colburn recieves NIH Award

Thursday, June 18, 2009

Cantor Colburn announced today that they have been selected by the National Institutes of Health (NIH) as outside patent counsel in the chemical arts.

Only four law firms were selected for this multi-year award, and Cantor Colburn was the only first time applicant and recipient. Cantor Colburn LLP is known nationally as highly skilled patent professionals and are proud to represent the National Institutes of Health in its cutting-edge biomedical research.

To read the press release, click here http://www.cantorcolburn.com/pdf/200906_Cantor%20Colburn%20Selected%20by%20NIH%20as%20Patent%20Counsel.pdf"

Atlantic Fasteners chosen as Lockheed Martin STAR Supplier

Tuesday, March 24, 2009

Congratulations goes out to Atlantic Fasteners of West Springfield for being chosen as Lockheed Martin STAR Supplier

Atlantic Fasteners chosen as Lockheed Martin STAR Supplier

Lockheed Martin-Electronic Systems has chosen Massachusetts-based Atlantic Fasteners to receive its STAR Supplier Award. Of the Lockheed division’s 4,625 vendors, only 36 received the award last year, placing Atlantic Fasteners in better than the top 1% percent of its suppliers.

“Atlantic Fasteners has provided us with high quality products, delivered on schedule, at a reasonable cost,” noted Douglas B. Goerke, director of sourcing, Electronic Systems Operations & Supply Chain Management, in the award notification.

The Lockheed Martin STAR Supplier Award recognizes high-performing suppliers of Electronic Systems and Lockheed’s other three business areas. The program was created in 1999 to promote performance excellence among suppliers.

To be nominated, Atlantic Fasteners met the quality, delivery and other business requirements set and evaluated by Electronic Systems for at least 12 months. Companies are re-evaluated annually in order to retain their status as STAR Suppliers.

In the spring, a formal award presentation by Lockheed Martin-Electronic Systems executives will be held at Atlantic Fasteners headquarters in West Springfield.

Atlantic Fasteners is a worldwide, ISO 9001:2000 certified supplier of commercial and military-aerospace fasteners. The company is 100% employee owned.

Dawn Creighton, Masslive.com, Being Honored March 13

Monday, March 9, 2009

Dawn Creighton, Masslive.com, Being Honored March 13 The Springfield Women’s Commission is observing International Women’s Day

Dawn Creighton, Masslive.com, Being Honored March 13

The Springfield Women’s Commission is observing International Women’s Day this Friday, March 13th.
Among the women being honored is Dawn Creighton of MassLive.com. Dawn does so much for our business community – at all hours of the day and night and weekends and holidays too. The RTC is thrilled to also acknowledge Dawn as our “economic engine” and so deserving in receiving this award.
Congratulations, Dawn, you absolutely earned this honor!

Congratulations to others being honored on Friday:
Elizabeth Cardona-Governor Patrick's Western Mass Office
Atty.Marjorie Hurst-Springfield School Committee
Sandra Federico-Springfield Parks Department.

Please join us in saluting these dynamic women at City Hall at Noon this Friday. Please RSVP to Susan Kacoyannakis.

Court Square Group Buys e-records group

Sunday, March 8, 2009

Congratulations to Keith Parent Chairman of the RTC Board of Directors as Court Square Group Buys e-records group

Court Square Group Buys e-records group Court Square Group, a Springfield IT consulting firm for life sciences, information technology and network security, announced it has bought a Pennsylvania-based computer validation business unit of QA Edge Inc. No financial terms of the acquisition deal were revealed. Court Square Group officials reported the deal as a step in expanding the company’s consulting business along the East Coast, with this latest acquisition growing the business to the mid-Atlantic region. Court Square Group already maintains multiple locations in New England, with its headquarters in Springfield and two more offices in Marlborough and Groton, Conn. As part of the deal, QA Edge COO Ken McKeown will join the Court Square Group. Founded in 1995, Court Square Group specializes in the life sciences, manufacturing and financial sectors. QA Edge develops computer validation and Part 21 CFR 11 training and services, which refers to electronic records.

RTC Congratulates Board Member, Biomedical Research Models,

Monday, February 23, 2009

RTC Congratulates Board Member, Biomedical Research Models, On Winning $2.5 Million NIH Grant - Part of R&D to be Performed at Their Springfield Laboratory Co-Located with PVLSI

BioMedical Research Models Inc (BRM)awarded a $2.5 Million NIH grant.

Kejian Yang Ph.D., a research director at BioMedical Research Models Inc has been awarded a three year grant from the National Institutes of Allergy and Infectious Disease (NIAID) totaling $2,563,532. The objectives of this grant are to extend studies and develop a vaccination strategy for genital herpes. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) provided initial funding to develop the platform. The CDC reports that approximately 20% of the adult population in the USA is infected with Herpes Simplex Viruses type 2 (HSV-2). Infection with HSV-2 can result in significant morbidity and psychological suffering. In addition, vertical transmission of virus from mother to infant and infections in immunocompromised individuals can lead to viral encephalitis and/or dissemination of virus throughout the body. HSV-2 has also been identified as a cofactor for human immunodeficiency virus (HIV).

The development of this vaccine would clearly have an impact on the greater than $1.6 billion spent annually on direct medical costs associated with HSV-2. The U.S. Public Health Service (PHS) has recognized the significant public health issues caused by herpes simplex virus. The PHS publication, “Healthy People 2010”, has set sexually transmitted diseases as a national priority with a goal to reduce the number of adults infected with human papilloma virus and HSV-2.

Biomedical Research Models, Inc. (BRM) is a biopharmaceutical company with sites in Worcester/Springfield, MA and Baltimore, MD (Biomere LLC). BRM is dedicated to the discovery, development and commercialization of novel proprietary therapeutics. BRM has become a cash-flow positive company with active research pipelines including the 1) continued development of animal models to study autoimmune diseases, 2) identification of viruses that initiate autoimmune disease and 3) development of novel vaccine platform to combat these viruses. In addition the vaccine platform has been demonstrated to be effective for the prevention of herpes infections in animal models.

For additional information contact:

Dennis L. Guberski President, BRM Inc 67 Millbrook St. Worcester, MA 01606 508-459-7544

Connects Update – February 2009

Wednesday, February 18, 2009

News updates with links for further exploration...

DTC Proposed Regional Investigation of Verizon Services

The Mass. Department of Telecommunications & Cable (DTC) is seeking comments about a proposed regional investigation of Verizon telephone service quality. This proposed investigation will incorporate current and pending town-specific inquiries into a broader, regional investigation. Please note that the investigation will not include an examination of DSL or internet services, because that is not under the regulatory authority of the DTC. A Request for Comment notice has been sent to each town in the region, requesting initial comments to be submitted by February 23rd.

The Connects have posted the comment letter they submitted to DTC supporting a regional investigation of Verizon services in western Massachusetts. Over the past ten years, the Connects have repeatedly heard from residents, businesses and local officials from throughout the region about their poor telephone service quality. Also, the Connects believe a regional approach would best address the region’s interconnected telecommunications infrastructure, and would result in a more timely and efficient investigation.

To view the Connects comment letter (73K pdf file) go to:
http://www.pioneervalleyconnect.org/downloads/ConnectCommentFeb09.pdf

To view the DTC’s Request for Comment notice go to:
http://www.mass.gov/Eoca/docs/dtc/telecom/RequestForCommentsWestrnMA09.pdf

Broadband Funding in the Federal Economic Stimulus Legislation

Today, the President signed into law the federal economic stimulus legislation, which includes $7.2 billion in funding for broadband. The two federal agencies that will administer these funds are the US Dept. of Commerce’s National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) and the USDA’s Rural Utilities Services (RUS). The NTIA will administer $4.7 billion through a new Broadband Technology Opportunities Program, and the RUS will administer $2.5 billion through existing grant and loan programs. The Connects will continue to work with state and federal partners and our federal legislative delegation including Senator Kerry and Congressman Olver, to determine if and how these federal resources could be used to promote broadband access in unserved areas of western Massachusetts.

Senator Kerry and Broadband

Senator Kerry was recently appointed Chairman to the newly formed Commerce Subcommittee on Communications and Technology, which will have jurisdiction over the FCC, the NTIA, and other select agencies. Recently, Senator Kerry wrote an Op/Ed piece for “The Hill” about the importance of broadband access, titled “We must make good on the promise of access to broadband for everyone.”

To view the appointment announcement:
http://kerry.senate.gov/cfm/record.cfm?id=308198

To view an Senator Kerry’s Op/Ed piece:
http://kerry.senate.gov/cfm/record.cfm?id=308188

Governor Administration's Focus on Broadband

The Patrick-Murray Administration has revealed their economic development strategy for the Commonwealth called “The Framework for Action.” The mission of this strategy is “to develop a framework for state programs and investments in partnership with local and regional leaders that leads to sustained economic growth and shared prosperity throughout the Commonwealth.” Throughout this Framework, the need for broadband access is highlighted as a top priority for the state and for specific regions, like Berkshire County and the Pioneer Valley.

To view an excerpt about broadband:
www.pioneervalleyconnect.org/newslinks.html.

To view The Framework for Action:
http://www.mass.gov/?pageID=ehedmodulechunk&L=1&L0=Home&sid=Ehed&b=terminalcontent&f=Framework_For_Action&csid=Ehed

MBI & Other States Submit White Paper to President and Congressional Leadership

On February 9th, the MBI and six other state technology agencies submitted a white paper to the President and Congressional Leadership encouraging their support of broadband funding in the economic stimulus legislation. The paper specifies some key elements that should be included, such as the bulk of funding to be available through grants rather than loans, and to encourage the NTIA to administer funds, rather than RUS.

To view the white paper, go to: http://www.masstech.org/broadband.

Commissioner Discuss Federal Stimulus on CSPAN

DTC Commissioner Sharon Gillett was part of a discussion on proposed broadband provisions in the federal economic stimulus bill that was broadcast on CSPAN on February 12th. As part of this discussion, the Commissioner highlighted the need for broadband funding and for its flexibility in addressing different localities and projects.

Please note that to view this half hour program requires sufficient bandwidth to stream the video:
http://www.cspan.org/Watch/watch.aspx?MediaId=HP-A-15218

Technology Update

Tuesday, February 17, 2009

Technology Update The technological spotlight is on Wilbraham and Western Massachusetts companies

TheWilbraham-Hampden Times
Ellen Bemben of Wilbraham is president of the Regional Technology Corporation.
Technology Update
The technological spotlight is on Wilbraham and Western Massachusetts companies
The Regional Technology Corporation (RTC), based in Springfield recently partnered with, Advanced Technological Education Television (ATETV) a National Science Foundation (NSF) project.
For the rest of the story please go to http://www.wilbrahamtimes.com/021209wilbraham.pdf

Southworth Company On “Good Morning America” and Launches “Promote Yourself America”

Monday, February 2, 2009

Southworth Company On “Good Morning America” and Launches “Promote Yourself America”

Southworth Company On “Good Morning America” and Launches “Promote Yourself America” Southworth was, “thrilled to be invited to attend “Good Morning America's” “Great American Job Fair” last week in Boston.” Southworth Company, Agawam, MA, a leading producer of Southworth® brand premium business papers and related products, has also announced the launch of “Promote Yourself America”, a website devoted to job seekers to share free résumé templates, advice on how to write a better résumé, as well as tips for interviews and networking. As an added bonus, Southworth is running a Sweepstakes offering 25 Weekly Chances to win a valuable collection of job search related products. The Sweepstakes will culminate with a Grand Prize drawing of a trip for two that can be used for networking, to visit a Career Fair, or simply for fun. “Promote Yourself America is our way of educating job seekers on how to build a better résumé for a more successful result”, said David Southworth, President of Southworth Company. “And hopefully we’ll be able to create a little excitement along the way with the added incentive of a Sweepstakes giveaway.” The Website, located at www.PromoteYourselfAmerica.com, was launched in January. The site contains Free Résumé Templates, Résumé Tips, Job Interview Advice, Career Fair Links, and a portal to enter the Sweepstakes. There is no purchase necessary to enter the drawings which consist of 25 chances (one per week for 25 weeks) to win a package of valuable job search tools including Southworth Résumé Folders, Southworth Thank You Cards, a Cross Pen, and a Buxton Padfolio. Everyone who enters will automatically be entered into the Grand Prize drawing of a trip for two, compliments of Southworth Company and Southwest Airlines. For more information visit www.southworth.com or Media Contact, Susan Martin at 413-233-2438 or at smartin@southworth.com.

Atalasoft Releases Vizit SP, The Document Image Viewer for SharePoint

Monday, February 2, 2009

At the Best Practices™ SharePoint Conference, Atalasoft, the leading provider of imaging tools for Microsoft .NET developers, announced the availability of Vizit SP, a document image viewing solution for Microsoft SharePoint Server (MOSS) 2007 and Windows SharePoint Services (WSS) 3.0.

Atalasoft Releases Vizit SP, The Document Image Viewer for SharePoint
February 2nd, 2009 – San Diego, CA – At the Best Practices™ SharePoint Conference, Atalasoft, the leading provider of imaging tools for Microsoft .NET developers, announced the availability of Vizit SP, a document image viewing solution for Microsoft SharePoint Server (MOSS) 2007 and Windows SharePoint Services (WSS) 3.0.

"We are proud to announce the release of Vizit SP, a comprehensive solution for document image viewing and collaboration in SharePoint," said William Bither, President & CEO of Atalasoft, Inc. “Vizit SP helps organizations migrate legacy document imaging applications into SharePoint to create new applications with similar functionality to legacy systems.”

Vizit SP includes commonly-used image viewing, cleanup, classification, and annotation features in a single user interface that integrates seamlessly on top of a SharePoint document library. Users can now perform routine tasks such as document review in a workflow or classifying documents for enterprise search and records management, using a native SharePoint application. Compared to costly and complex 3rd party enterprise content management (ECM) solutions, the combination of Vizit SP and SharePoint could dramatically reduce the total cost of ownership for imaging solutions by replacing legacy products.

Vizit SP includes zero-footprint document viewing, reducing bandwidth usage as well as eliminating the hassle of installing and maintaining desktop-based viewing software. No downloads, add-ons, or plug-ins are required for Vizit SP as the functionality is natively embedded in SharePoint. Because of this integration Vizit SP enhances workgroup collaboration on scanned documents, leveraging SharePoint’s workflow capabilities to offer automation of remote indexing, approval, and QA.

Organizations evaluating Vizit SP will be granted free and unlimited usage of the Vizit Previewer for all their SharePoint users, providing them with fast access to previews of TIFF, Word, PDF, and other documents in any MOSS 2007 or WSS 3.0 document lists and libraries. Vizit SP is also integrated with the free Vizit Scan-to-SharePoint utility, giving users of select Kodak scanners the ability to scan images directly to a SharePoint library.

About Atalasoft Atalasoft, Inc. provides ECM imaging technology to ISVs, systems integrators, and enterprises with millions of end users worldwide. Atalasoft provides the tools to migrate enterprise solutions from the desktop to the web. Atalasoft is the producer of imaging technology products including DotImage – the leading imaging toolkit for .NET developers, and Vizit SP – Document Viewing and Imaging for SharePoint.

Contact For More Information: Tom Lewis / (866) 568-0129 / tom@atalasoft.comtom@atalasoft.com

Universal Mind Joins Intuit Partner Platform

Monday, December 22, 2008

WESTFIELD — Universal Mind Inc., a provider for Rich Internet Applications (RIA), recently joined the Intuit Partner Platform to deliver workplace applications with dynamic

December 22, 2008 http://www.businesswest.com/dept.asp?dat=12/22/2008&hea=Company%20Notebook WESTFIELD — Universal Mind Inc., a provider for Rich Internet Applications (RIA), recently joined the Intuit Partner Platform to deliver workplace applications with dynamic rich Internet features to Intuit's user community of more than 4 million small businesses. As part of the Partner Platform, Universal Mind will not only create its own applications, but will also be poised to help other platform participants augment their applications with its rich Internet development expertise. The Intuit Partner Platform enables developers to rapidly design, deploy, and market rich Internet applications that work with QuickBooks and use Intuit's proven on-demand infrastructure. By taking the complexity out of managing infrastructure, hosting, user management, integration, and billing, the Intuit Partner Platform helps developers focus on creating innovative on-demand software solutions that solve unique business problems. Universal Mind's first application for the Intuit Partner Platform is Customer Explorer from SpatialKey, powered by SpatialKey, a Web-based reporting, analysis, and mapping solution. The application allows customers to quickly see geographic and temporal trends in their QuickBooks customer data. Users can view interactive heat maps of their balances and filter by time, job status, or job type, and drill down to specific customer and job details. Street and satellite imagery in the application is provided by MapQuest. Users can also view thematic demographic data provided by Placebase's Pushpin data and mapping service, which includes median household income in context with their own customer data. Universal Mind, with offices in Westfield and Golden, Colo., recently showcased its beta applications at the Adobe MAX show in San Francisco. For more information, visit www.universalmind.com.

United Personnel Earns WRC Certification

Monday, December 15, 2008

United Personnel has announced that they have been awarded the Workers’ Compensation Risk Certification (WRC).

United Personnel has announced that they have been awarded the Workers’ Compensation Risk Certification (WRC). To be awarded certification, companies undergo a rigorous review of their operational processes in hiring and screening, substance abuse preclusion, talent matching, employee orientation, client safety evaluations and partnerships, incident investigations and corrective measures, and return-to-work programs. The results are compared against a system of best practices developed by an advisory council of insurance carriers, insurance brokers, and staffing industry risk managers. According to Mary Ellen Scott, President and Owner of United Personnel: ‘We’re very proud to have achieved this certification. Our staff is committed to providing the highest level of commitment to safety for both our clients and our Field Staff. United is the only staffing company in this region to be awarded this certification, and we look forward to sharing the importance and benefits of workplace safety practices and cost containment strategies with our clients.’ The WRC program was developed in partnership with the American Staffing Association, RCS Services, the nation’s fifth largest private risk management consulting firm, and insurance industry experts. Information about WRC certification is published on the program’s Web site at staffingWRCs.com. Congratulations, Mary Ellen and the entire United Personnel team from your RTC!

New RTC Members

Sunday, December 14, 2008

DUE TO SCOTT KIRSNER & INNOVATION INVESTING EVENT: We would like to welcome two new members to the RTC family. They are William Porter IV TEC Granby, MA and The Pucino Group MMTN Helmi Pucino President Agawam, MA

The Vann Group Featured in BusinessWest

Monday, December 1, 2008

Kevin and Michael Vann (father & son) principals with Springfield based Vann Group

“Kevin and Michael Vann” (father & son), principals with Springfield-based Vann Group, like to say that they work with companies that “know that they are not where they want to be tomorrow.” This covers a lot of ground — what company isn’t in that category? — and thus it provides a wealth of growth opportunities for a professional advisory group that, in a nutshell, helps clients get where they want to go — wherever that is. How it does all this — through partnerships and what Kevin Vann calls “bringing good minds to the table” — is what sets it apart.” Mike Vann is RTC Treasurer and I can say, firsthand, that he and The Vann Group have brought effective strategic planning and guidance to the RTC and its members. You might want to talk with Mike and Kevin in steering your way through the uncharted economic waters we find ourselves in today! For full article http://www.businesswest.com/details.asp?id=1787 Writes Editor, George O’Brien:

Atalasoft Ranked in Inc

Monday, September 22, 2008

Atalasoft Ranked in Inc's Top 100 Fastest Growing Software Companies

Atalasoft, Easthampton, MA, Ranked in Inc.’s Top 100 Fastest Growing Software Companies - Inc. Magazine named Atalasoft, Inc. to its annual ranking of the 5000 fastest growing non-public companies in the United States. The 2008 Inc. 5000 list measures revenue growth from 2004 through 2007. To qualify, companies must be U.S.-based and privately held, for profit, independent – not subsidiaries or divisions of other companies – and to have had at least $200,000 in revenue in 2004, and $2 million in 2007. Within the list, Atalasoft was ranked among the Top 100 software companies based on its performance in that segment. “We’re especially proud of this award given that Atalasoft is completely self-funded and has never taken outside angel or venture capital investment” said William Bither, Founder and CEO. “Being named to this list is a confirmation that our strategy is on the right track and that our document imaging products are finding wide acceptance across many industries and applications.” The 5000 companies that made the list reported aggregate revenue of $185 billion and median three-year growth of 147 percent. Most importantly, the 2008 Inc. 5000 companies were engines of job growth, having created more than 826,033 jobs since those companies were founded. Atalasoft, Inc. provides ECM imaging technology to ISVs, Systems Integrators, and Enterprises with thousands of customers, and millions of end users worldwide. Specializing in zero-footprint, AJAX-enabled web image viewing, Atalasoft provides the tools to migrate enterprise solutions from the desktop to the web. For almost a decade, Atalasoft has produced imaging technology products including DotImage – the leading imaging toolkit for .NET developers, and Vizit SP – Document Viewing and Imaging for SharePoint. Contact For More Information: Tom Lewis / Phone: (866) 568-0129 / tom.lewis@atalasoft.com

Universal Mind, launched SpatialKey

Monday, September 22, 2008

Universal Mind, Westfield, recently launched SpatialKey

Universal Mind, Westfield, MA recently launched SpatialKey as a next generation Information Visualization, Analysis and Reporting System. It is designed to help organizations quickly assess location based information critical to their organizational goals, decision making processes and reporting requirements. Universal Mind also had the good fortune to make the front page of Computerworld Magazine Sept. 1 issue. Can Web 2.0 save BI? Mashups could be the answer to BI's problems. Here's how organizations are connecting the technologies to make better business decisions This year Universal Mind made the Inc. 500 list again for the second consecutive year in a row at #343 http://www.inc.com/inc5000/2008/company-profile.html?id=200803430 averaging 853% growth and Ranked No. 41 in the Top 100 IT Services Companies Universal Mind was also ranked 290 in the 2007 Inc.5000, http://www.inc.com/inc5000/2007/company-profile.html?id=200702900 Congratulations Todd and team!

Toner Plastics Inc. develops alternative to PVC

Wednesday, June 25, 2008

RTC member organization, Toner Plastics of Agawam, has developed a compound that is suitable for replacing PVC plastic.

Toner Plastics of Agawam, MA and S&E Specialty Polymers, an affiliated company, have recently developed a compound that is suitable for replacing PVC plastic.

It is very difficult to replace flexible PVC due to its attractive properties such as strength, gloss and flexibility. The new compound does just that and is 100% free of PVC (polyvinyl chloride).

PVC is an extremely versatile plastic that has been used in many industries for years. Toys, intravenous blood bags, packaging and many other applications are manufactured with PVC. Retailers like Wal-Mart, Toys R Us and Target along with manufacturers such as Apple Computer, IBM, Honda, and others are all looking to replace PVC used in their packaging and products with a non-PVC alternative.

Their concerns are both environmental and health related. Some argue the chlorine, a basic building bloc for PVC is bad for the environment, dioxins which potentially cause cancer are released during production, it is not as easy to recycle as other plastics, and some additives that may be used such as phthalates have been shown to affect rodents in lab tests. Independent studies may refute the concerns but it is clear the public perception of PVC has been affected to the point where the market may be ready for an alternative.

Many companies are working on alternatives but few have hit the market with anything to date. Toner is one of the first to have a commercial application and with only 25 people it is quite a feat. The company has been shipping a special extruded cord used in the Safety Industry and is planning on introducing it to others as well.

Toner has been making craft products for years selling to such companies as AC Moore, Hobby Lobby, Michaels Crafts, JoAnns and Wal-Mart. It is the only US manufacturer of the age old product known by some as Gimp and others as Lanyard or Boondoggle. The new compound will give it an opportunity to supply the craft industry and many others with a product that meets all current “Green” initiatives without sacrificing performance.

For additional information please contact: David Race at 413-789-1300; dr@tonerplastics.com

Al Gore Visits FloDesign

Monday, June 16, 2008

FORMER VP, AL GORE, VISITS WILBRAHAM AND RTC MEMBER, FLODESIGN

FloDesign of Wilbraham recently had a major guest at their Main Street, Wilbraham facility. Former US Vice President, Al Gore, came to see what the excitement was all about regarding FloDesign’s new wind turbine technology. CEO Stan Kowalski proudly showed off the new turbine that can be driven by various currents including wind, river, and tidal currents. Using the company’s strong expertise in jet propulsion, the MIT & WNEC graduates at FloDesign developed this unique form of alternative energy and it continues to make the news nationally. Gore is allegedly interested from an investment stand point.

Veritech Corporation Hosts Russian Officials

Monday, June 16, 2008

RTC Member, Veritech Corporation, in discussions with Russian officials to license their product.

Last week, two Russian officials came to East Longmeadow to meet with key personnel from Patient EDU and Veritech Corporation to discuss an agreement that would translate Patient EDU’s patient education product into Russian and allow the Russian officials to license the product throughout the Russian Federation and territory of former Soviet republics.

For more than 30 years, Veritech has been a leader in creating innovative and effective communication solutions, especially in the health care sector. From education and training to marketing communications, Veritech has produced effective programs that have the ability to be tracked, helping to easily establish return on investment.

For more information about Veritech Corporation, visit www.veritechmedia.com.

National Award Goes to MassExport

Monday, June 9, 2008

PRESTIGIOUS NATIONAL AWARDS GOES TO RTC MEMBER, MASS EXPORT CENTER

The Massachusetts Export Center recently received two national awards.

Last week, the Export Center received the Presidential ‘E’ Award for excellence in exporting. Earlier in the month, the Export Center received the the U.S. Small Business Administration’s Small Business Development Center (SBDC) Service Center Excellence and Innovation Award. Both awards were presented in Washington, D.C. The ‘E’ Award is the highest honor the federal government can give to American people, firms or organizations that have made significant contributions to the increase of American exports. The Massachusetts Export Center was presented this award by President George W. Bush and U.S. Secretary of Commerce Carlos M. Gutierrez at a formal ceremony in Washington DC.

The SBDC Service Center Excellence and Innovation Award honors Small Business Development Centers for their innovation and excellence in assisting entrepreneurs and small business owners achieve their business goals. There are over 1,000 SBDCs in the United States, and the Massachusetts Export Center was the nation-wide winner of this award, which was presented by Steven Preston, Administrator of the U.S. Small Business Administration.

Mass Export has offices locally at Holyoke Community College. In winning, Western Massachusetts Program Director, Ann Pieroway, also an RTC and MMTN Steering Committee member went to the White House to accept the award from President George W. Bush. US Senator John Kerry also joined in this important ceremony. Congratulations to our Mass Export team! They have worked with the RTC for many years and have made valuable contributions which have been greatly appreciated. Congratulations Ann, Paula and this great team!

Al Gore Eyeing FloDesign

Tuesday, May 27, 2008

It’s been a big week for FloDesign Wind Turbine of Wilbraham, Massachusetts.

On Monday the company placed first in the MIT Enterprise Forum’s Ignite Clean Energy Competition, winning $100,000 in cash and services. On Tuesday, the company netted an additional $200,000 in cash by winning the MIT Clean Energy Entrepreneurship Prize Competition.

Which means that the company, a spinoff of aerospace technology consultancy FloDesign in Wilbraham, MA, earned a total of $300,000 in a little more than 24 hours.

And there are hints of much more money to come. Xconomy has learned from a source with insight into the company that Al Gore, the former vice president and Nobel Peace Prize winner who is now a partner at Silicon Valley venture capital firm Kleiner Perkins Caufield & Byers, has offered FloDesign venture financing totaling as much as $10 million. Click here to read more

MMTN Chair featured on MasterCard promo

Monday, April 28, 2008

Ann Latham, President of Uncommon Clarity, Inc. and Chair of our MMTN network is currently featured on the MasterCard Small Business website

in a podcast interview addressing techniques for improving employee productivity. Uncommon Clarity is a western Massachusetts consulting firm specializing in improving individual and organizational performance. To hear the interview, Click Here

RTC featured in Business West

Monday, April 7, 2008

“All Access Pass: The Regional Technology Corporation Keeps the Welcome Mat Out” is the article about RTC in the current issue of BusinessWest and can be found here:www.businesswest.com/details.asp?id=1515.

Welcome New RTC Members

Sunday, April 6, 2008

Please join us in welcoming our two newest members: Concept Telecom and Point Software, both of East Longmeadow, Massachusetts.

FloDesign Finds Better Way to Capture Wind Energy

Thursday, March 27, 2008

FloDesign of Wilbraham gets approval for new wind turbine concept and $500,000 in funding!

The Massachusetts Technology Collaborative (MTC) has approved a new energy-producing wind turbine that has been conceptualized by FloDesign Corporation. The new design breaks power-producing limits previously set by conventional propeller-based wind turbines. FloDesign has developed a turbine capable of harnessing Nor’easter gale-force winds in sub-zero conditions. To read the full press release, visit http://www.flodesignwindturbine.org

Knowledge Corridor Jobs goes live March 1

Monday, February 25, 2008

Masslive.com and RTCs Knowledge Corridor Jobs will go live March 1 at http://www.masslive.com/jobs/rtc/. Are you ready? Our employees are!

Airgas acquires Merriam-Graves

Wednesday, February 6, 2008

Airgas, Inc., announced it has acquired Merriam-Graves Corporation, an independent distributor of industrial, medical, and specialty gases and related supplies operating in 25 locations in New England and New York.

The acquired business generated $47 million in revenues in 2007.Effective February 1, 2008, the acquired operations have been integrated into Airgas East, one of the regional companies within Airgas. To view the full press release, visit www.airgas.com.

Welcome Airgas!

Thursday, January 17, 2008

Airgas East has recently joined RTC. Airgas is a producer and the largest distributor of Medical, Specialty and Industrial gases in North America.

They are also the largest producer of Dry Ice in North America. Airgas is structured where every product group has a specialist working along side the local account managers; this is unique to the industry. Airgas is 25 yeas old starting with the acquisition of Connecticut Oxygen; today they have over 11,000 associates and 900 locations. For more information, visit www.airgas.com.

BellHawk Systems Corp is new member!

Thursday, January 17, 2008

BellHawk Systems, located in Millbury, MA, is one of RTCs newest member organizations.

BellHawk Systems is a software products company offering an integrated suite of operations management software for industrial companies. BellHawk uses the latest in barcode, RFID and wireless mobile technology so its customers can track inventory and production, help prevent mistakes, get orders out on time, and provide accurate costs—all in real-time. BellHawk pays for itself in less than six months through savings in decreased inventory and improved operational efficiency. For more information, visit www.BellHawk.com.

IBS Featured in BusinessWest

Thursday, January 3, 2008

Innovative Business Systems (IBS) was recently featured in an article in BusinessWest magazine titled, “Group Think: IBS Charges Ahead with a Unique Management Model Focused on the Future”. The full article can be found by following this link http://businesswest.com/details.asp?id=1391.

United Personnel, Top 100 Woman Led Business in Mass

Friday, December 7, 2007

United Personnel has been named to Top 100 Woman-Led Business in Massachusetts. A major research study released by Babson College and The Commonwealth Institute finds that woman-led businesses in Massachusetts are strong engines of economic growth, consistently outperforming national and state growth rates for each of the six years that the study was conducted. United Personnel ranked #43 this year, moving up from #55 from 2006. “It is an honor to be a part of this prestigious group,” says Mary Ellen Scott, President and owner of United Personnel Services, Inc. For more information, visit www.unitedpersonnel.com.